Do not travel to Mali because of crime, terrorism, AND kidnapping.
On July 29, 2022, the Department ordered the removal of non-emergency US government employees and family members due to the increased risk of terrorist attacks in areas frequented by Westerners. The US Embassy continues to have limited ability to provide emergency assistance to US citizens in Mali.
Country summary: Violent crime, such as kidnapping and armed robbery, is common in Mali. Violent crime is a particular concern during local holidays and seasonal events in Bamako, its suburbs and Mali’s southern regions. Road blocks and random police checkpoints are common throughout the country, especially at night.
Terrorist and armed groups continue to plan kidnappings and attacks in Mali. They can strike with little or no warning, targeting nightclubs, hotels, restaurants, places of worship, international diplomatic missions and other places frequented by Westerners. Attacks could target Malian government offices, infrastructure or locations frequented by Westerners.
The U.S. government is unable to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in much of Mali as travel by U.S. government employees outside of Bamako is restricted due to security concerns.
Due to the dangers to civil aviation operating in or near the Mountain, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice of Air Missions (NOTAM). For more information, US citizens should consult the Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices.
Read the country information page for additional information on traveling to Mali.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has determined that Mali has a low level of COVID-19. Visit the CDC site for the latest travel health information about your trip.
If you decide to travel to Mali:
· Visit our website for travel to high risk areas.
· Draft a will and designate the appropriate insurance beneficiaries and/or power of attorney.
· Discuss a plan with loved ones regarding the care/care of children, pets, property, belongings, non-liquid assets (collections, artwork, etc.), funeral wishes, etc.
· Share important documents, login information, and contact points with loved ones so they can manage your affairs if you are unable to return to the United States as planned. Find a suggested list of such documents here.
· Create your own personal security plan in coordination with your employer or host organization, or consider consulting with a professional security organization.
· Develop a communication plan with your family and/or host employer or organization so they can monitor your safety and whereabouts while traveling through high-risk areas. This plan should specify who you will contact first and how you should share the information.
· Identify key sources of possible help for you and your family in an emergency, such as the local US embassy or consulate, the FBI, the State Department, your employer (if you travel for work), and local friends/family at a senior level danger zone.
· Be sure to designate a family member to serve as the point of contact with the hostage takers, the media, US and host country government agencies, and members of Congress if you are taken hostage or detained.
· Establish a proof-of-life protocol with your loved ones so that, if you are taken hostage, your loved ones know specific questions and answers to ask the hostage takers to make sure you are alive and to rule out a scam.
· Leave the DNA samples with your medical provider in case it is necessary for your family to access them.
· Keep your passport and wallet safe when in crowded outdoor areas and open markets.
· Be alert for pickpockets, especially at night.
· Use all available security measures in your home or hotel, including locking doors and windows at all times and setting the alarm.
· If you are asked to stop by the police, stop only in well-lit areas or in places where several officers are stationed.
· Delete any sensitive photos, comments or other material from your social media pages, cameras, laptops and other electronic devices that may be considered controversial or provocative by local groups.
· Leave your expensive/sentimental things behind.
· Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
· Follow the Department of State on Facebook and I tweet.
· Review the State Security Report for Mali.
· Prepare an emergency plan for emergency situations. Review the traveler checklist.
· Read the State Department’s COVID-19 page before planning any international travel and read the Embassy’s COVID-19 page for country-specific information about COVID-19.
